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OPINION

Editorial: Thanksgiving a day to celebrate, regardless of circumstances

Editorial board
Published 1:25 a.m. ET Nov. 22, 2018

A Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade staple, Tom Turkey has had some updates done ahead of this year's parade. Photographed during a tour of the Macy's Parade Studio on Tuesday, Nov. 13, 2018, in Moonachie. (Photo: Danielle Parhizkaran/NorthJersey.com)

Gratitude is a word with many synonyms, including recognition, honor, grace, acknowledgment, indebtedness, and others. But the essence of the word is being grateful, or thankful — which is also the what we observe on Thanksgiving Day.

For 229 years, Americans have celebrated the official Thanksgiving holiday, and President Lincoln declared it an official federal holiday in 1863. It's evolved through the years, to be sure, but today we honor a day of Turkey Trot running races, family reunions, bountiful feasts, football, and the unofficial "activity" of the day, a nice nap on the couch.

The drawing power of Thanksgiving brings together many who haven't seen each other all year long, because of distance and other matters. At the heart of the fourth Thursday of November is a time to gather, reflect, laugh, and maybe even shed a tear or two, as we celebrate what we have and who we are.

Part of Thanksgiving, though, is the impending Black Friday — which is unofficially observed as a holiday by many thrifty shoppers hoping to secure a great deal on a gift or gifts. While many decry the day as a sign of our collective want to collect things, and spend money, it's fuel to the economic engine in our town — one that shouldn't be dismissed. Whether your shopping at a big box store, or at one of the great small businesses here, spend within your means and have a little fun.

And, if you're stuck at home with the little ones while others go out and shop, maybe you'll feel thankful for the joy and smiles they bring — even if they don't always act like little angels.

For others, Thanksgiving is tough. Perhaps they don't feel like celebrating or have had a tough year.

Perhaps they don't have a home, or an excellent meal to honor the holiday. Fortunately, we're blessed with thoughtful, caring people who take time from their families and friends to cook and serve dinner to those less fortunate than the rest of us. They also take time to deliver some meals to those who can't get out to get them.

Maybe a loved one is far from home serving our country or otherwise separated from family. It's important to check in on those folks, too. Regardless of age, many people find the holidays difficult and emotions can run high during this period each year. A kind word, a caring call, or a well-timed visit can make a holiday feel special even during the toughest of times.

Our hope for your Thanksgiving is a happy and joyous one, regardless of circumstances. We live in a great country that has afforded us a great opportunity, hope, liberty, and the ability to make our dreams come true. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!